I just love the Christmas season — the music, gathering of family and friends, Midnight mass and of course, the holiday fare.  But with so much to do, we tend to stress out and focus on just “surviving” the holidays.

This year you don’t have to just survive, let’s Thrive by embracing the all the wonderful gifts that the holiday season has to offer.

Here are a few tips and recipes I would like to share so You can Thrive during the holidays.

1. Set your daily holiday intention

Before your feet hit the ground, take 5 minutes to breath, give thanks and meditate on your intention for the day – for example, I will spread Joy to my family, clerks, co-workers with a big smile and a word of appreciation – you will be amazed at the response!

So refreshing and invigorating!

2.  Kick off morning with a dose of Greens!

Greens in the morning?? How do I do that?  Keep a bag of frozen Kale in your freezer and throw a handful in your smoothie – you will never taste it, trust me.  Toss some baby spinach in your eggs or use instead of lettuce in your sandwich.

You get the picture – look for opportunities to slip in your greens; they are truly the superstar foods that will give your body the nutrients it craves.

Click Here for my Green Morning Wake-Up Recipes.

XMplus the safe nutritious energy drink

3. Manage your Parties the Energized Body way!

My secret weapon is the Zija Xmplus natural Energy drink.

I like to drink it before the party–for controlling my appetite, getting a bump of natural energy and the supreme nutrition of Moringa. I go to the party feeling good and not tempted to eat or drink too much!

My mother’s signature holiday dip: still a goodie!

Bringing something to a party? Offer to bring a dish that YOU can eat and enjoy. Try one of my Fresh Holiday Appetizers.  Remember, get your greens in by making the cucumber your new chip!

Toast the holidays with my Cranberry Energy Sparkler: beautiful bubbly without the guilt!

Rollerblading on the Minuteman Trail, Lexington, MA

4.Keep your exercise routine

Exercise will keep you calm, improve sleeping and keep the waistline in check. Get a Holiday walking buddy, a great way to stay connected and de-stress during the busy season.

5. Get your sleep!

Loss of sleep can dampen your hunger control hormones, causing you to crave high risk foods.  Who wants that?  So strive to be in bed (on the non-party nights) by 10pm.  Being rested will keep you looking fresh and your metabolism working efficiently.

I  hope you try some of the recipes and tips.  The best gift you can give to yourself and your loved ones is being a joyful, loving, healthy soul because when you feel good, you radiate goodness.  Who doesn’t enjoy being around that!

Have a Blessed Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year!